“The SOS Student Ambassador Program is a great opportunity for young leaders to cultivate their affinity for public service and expand leadership skills. We are excited to take part in the development and growth of the next generation of Mississippians and look forward to providing a greater understanding of one of our greatest liberties, the right to vote.”
- Secretary of State Michael Watson
WHAT IS THE SOS STUDENT AMBASSADOR PROGRAM?
The Secretary of State’s Student Ambassador Program is a program between high school seniors, the Secretary of State’s Office, and Secretary of State Michael Watson. Through the program, students with a passion for leadership and state government are equipped to return to their schools as proponents of voter education and awareness. They also have regular interactions with leaders from the Secretary of State’s Office, Mississippi Legislature, and various other state and local officials.
Students who complete the program receive a first-hand account of state government in action, establish a network of like-minded peers from across the state, and experience the processes that ensure Mississippi is a better place for their generation and generations to come.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Any student who meets the following criteria may submit an application to be considered for admission:
- Grade Point Average of 3.0 or above
- Upcoming high school senior
- Proven satisfactory behavioral conduct
- Interest in state government
WHAT DO STUDENT AMBASSADORS DO THROUGHOUT THE YEAR?
Ambassadors attend one-day spring and fall semester summits at the Secretary of State’s Office in Jackson as well as participate in periodic conference calls. The fall summit focuses on the elections process in Mississippi with an emphasis on the importance of voter education and participation in the election process. Student Ambassadors get an inside view of how elections operate in the state including an opportunity to serve at polling places in their area.
The spring summit, during the legislative session, gives students a deeper understanding of the Mississippi legislative process. Students are equipped to develop a spring voter registration campaign in their schools. Through monthly virtual meetings, students are able to collaborate, ask questions, and seek guidance from Secretary of State representatives, Mississippi legislators, and each other.
WHAT DO FORMER STUDENT AMBASSADORS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THE PROGRAM?
"Being a Secretary of State Student Ambassador for the past year was quite an immersive learning experience. Through the ambassador program, I, along with the other ambassadors, was able to interact with our Secretary, Michael Watson, and other local and state officials who run the state legislature. Because of these experiences, we were able to learn a great deal about our state and local governments and, most importantly, encourage those in our community to get involved in civic activities such as voting, volunteering, and developing a greater understanding of governmental affairs. Overall, the Secretary of State Ambassador Program was a wonderful experience, and I hope next year's ambassadors are able to enjoy it as much as I have." - Riley Tingle, 2024-2025 SOS Student Ambassador
"My time serving as a Mississippi Secretary of State Ambassador was truly one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I gained lifelong friendships and connections, and I also learned so much about what the role of Secretary of State really involves. We had many opportunities to hear from different leaders across Mississippi, which gave us valuable insight into navigating life and planning for our future careers. I’ll forever be grateful for this program - it taught me so much not just about Mississippi, but also about myself. To anyone who gets the chance to be part of the 2025–2026 Ambassador class, you’re in for something special. This program is truly amazing!" - Layton Varner, 2024-2025 SOS Student Ambassador
For more information or questions about the SOS Student Ambassador Program, please email Ambassadors@sos.ms.gov.